Urban Design

The vision for downtown is supported by goals, objectives and design principles to provide a unified perspective and make the project a success. Based off the community engagement from the planning stage of this project, the following streetscape vision statement was created:

As the metropolitan heart of the city, downtown Grande Prairie will be a modern reflection of urban spirit and cultural vitality. Through unique and adaptive urban design, the downtown streetscapes will attract growth and support year round activity, promoting a sense of civic pride.

The seven main goals informing the design framework for downtown streets are:

Urban

Modern

Unique

Attractive

Walkable

Cultural

Active

From the engagement sessions, nine objectives were identified which are each backed by a set of principles that guide the urban design recommendations. These objectives include:

Identity- To enhance an active and vibrant downtown destination that embraces the culture of Grande Prairie:

Identify opportunities for themed gateway features that contribute to the sense of destination when entering the downtown

Seasonality- To incorporate flexible design solutions into the streetscape to accommodate a range of functions and activities that can vary throughout the seasons:

Encourage flexible and dynamic streetscapes and furnishings that seamlessly support year round community events and ornamentation

Maintenance- To ensure ease of year round maintenance through the use of appropriate streetscape materials:

Use sustainable materials and construction best practices to decrease maintenance frequency and cost

The following Winter City recommendations have also been made:

Year-round activity- The proposed streetscape enhancements are designed to help downtown function to its full potential year round. Some of these features include new infrastructure for seasonal decorations and lighting, heat trap structures and expanded public gathering spaces.

Snow and ice removal- Develop a comprehensive snow removal strategy. Although some of the proposed features can potentially create difficulties for snow removal, the benefits outweigh the costs and there are other mitigation options available.

Pedestrian circulation- Pedestrians must be able to safely and conveniently navigate downtown streetscapes, parking lots and building entryways.

Vegetation- To successfully include planting as part of the streetscape, species must be chosen that are suitable for our northern climate. Further, if planted appropriately vegetation can serve to offer climate control by establishing desirable microclimate conditions.

Materials- Climate-appropriate methods and materials must be used to prevent substructure heaving and settling which can in turn create tripping hazards.

Future Development- Future site design must respond to winter climate conditions through consideration of building orientation, building design and density.